Paivio has published approximately two hundred articles and is most notably known for his dual-coding theory. The dual-coding theory posits that visual and verbal information is each processed along distinct channels with the human mind creating different representations for information processed in each channel. Alan Baddeley in his theory of working memory essentially includes a dual-code theory in the form of a visuospatial sketchpad and a phonological loop.

Paivio’s work has implications in many areas including human factors, interface design, as well as the development of educational materials.

Paivio was also a competitive body builder in his younger days, winning a number of competitions. In 1948 he was Mr. Canada and went on to take several other awards in the coming years.